Parent with a Purpose: Friday Ellis

One of our favorite things about publishing Macaroni Kid is the chance to connect with other parents in our community. Often times these connections inspire us and remind us of the ability of one person to make a difference. It is with this in mind that we launch a new article series called 'Parent with a Purpose'. Our hope is to introduce you to some amazing parents living right in our communities who not only are doing unique and wonderful things but also deserve to have some attention brought to their purpose.

We are honored to introduce you to Friday Ellis, founder of Governors Cigar & Pipe. Governors is located in the Garden District of Monroe, LA. I first met Friday through his wife of 15 years, Ashley, several lifetimes ago in high school. They have three children, Friday III, Asher, and Aurie Grace. When Ashley first mentioned to me that they were opening Governors, I was anxious to see how our community would respond and have been amazed to see the outcome of local community relationships growing stronger through Governors. Several of you may also recognize him for Garden District Block Party events and his recognition as one the Top 20 under 40 by Delta Business.

Do you know a local Parent with a Purpose? Nominate them to be featured in an upcoming column HERE!

What is your PURPOSE? What do you want to accomplish?

Our purposeful mission is for Governors to serve a greater purpose than being a Retail Tobacconist. We set out to create an atmosphere that encouraged men and women to gather together, celebrate life and build community. I’m very proud of our guys at Governors and they truly are the reason for our success.

What inspired/encouraged you to create Governors Cigar & Pipe?

My wife and close friends encouraged me to open Governors because they knew my passion for tobacco and the cigar industry wasn’t just passing phase. They truly believed my love of cigars could turn into a viable business.  I’m blessed that my wife encouraged me to peruse a dream and supported me every step of the way. I am also thankful for the friends who have encouraged and helped along the way.

In January, we are launching own brand of cigars through Black Label Trading Company in Estelí Nicaragua. Through my travels I have met some amazing people in the industry and the crew at Black Label run an amazing factory. They are rightfully named “The Governor” and “The First Lady”.  It has always been a personal goal to create something within the industry and in January I get to see it come into fruition.

How did your life before children influence the father you are today?

I was blessed to have an amazing father who had such an amazing work ethic and truly loved life and those around him. As a child I witnessed him run a small business and build relationships. He took the time to teach and encourage me in every phase of my life. Serving in the Marine Corps had a lasting impact on my live as well, it gave me the confidence that I could accomplish any task and it shaped the way I attack each day.

What lessons/values do you hope your kids are learning?

I hope they are learning that it’s okay to take risks, to put their dream out there for others to love too. I can remember the look on people’s faces when I told them I was opening a cigar shop in Monroe. But I had to remember that it was my dream and that it was up to me to bring it to life. I hope that they understand that it’s never too late to change your path in life. When Ashley and I decided that Governors was going to happen, I pipelined for startup capital. The time away from family was hard but I think the bigger lesson learned was that if you want something, work hard and go get it.

What do you do to take care of yourself and how do you make time to do it?

My kids keep me young and on my toes. I love throwing the football in the front yard or the occasional wrestling match in the living room, it’s never a dull moment at the Ellis house.

What can we/the public do to support Governors Cigar & Pipe?

Shop local! It’s a very exciting time to live in the Twin Cities. We have a crop of young and inspired entrepreneurs who are bringing unique experiences for us to enjoy. It’s up to us to ensure that they have every opportunity to succeed and to let them know how much we appreciate their hard work.